The Elephant and the Sea

By turns thrilling and warmly reassuring, this story demonstrates that resolve—and inclusion—wins out; readers will cheer for Gabriel all the way... Vere brings the Cornish setting to life beautifully. Gabriel cuts an endearing figure in the lively illustrations, rendered in a limited palette of soft oranges, grays, and blues. A charming winner about purpose, bravery, and making one’s dreams come true.

Kirkus - starred review

The atmospheric illustrations have layers and textures, creating a realistic backdrop juxtaposed with animal characters.

Booklist

This affectionately swashbuckling work ... is not a tale of injustice redressed: Gabriel is so gentle, and the lifeboat crew so grateful, that only joy lingers as the elephant finds a way to do what he loves, and comes away with marvelous stories to tell.

Publishers Weekly - starred review

Vere’s crisp text adeptly relies on repetition and sporadic punctuated rhythm to add intrigue to a tried-and-true narrative structure... Gabriel’s bright eyes, blue and yellow sailor’s costume, and feline companion make for a unique and endearing protagonist. This is an excellent addition to any maritime-themed storytime, with room for deeper exploration of the themes of vocation and heroism—or simply use this as a lead-in to a chorus of kid-friendly sea shanties.

The Bulletin for the Center of Children's Books